France, Sweden Push EU to Tighten Rules on Israeli Settlement Imports

France and Sweden have called on the European Commission to impose stricter restrictions on imports coming from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, including higher tariffs and tougher import controls, according to Western media reports.

Citing an internal document, EUobserver reported that Paris and Stockholm are urging stronger action against what they describe as illegal settlement activity, which they say has accelerated in recent months. Another outlet, Euractiv, said both countries are pushing for increased EU pressure on Israel and plan to present new proposals to EU foreign ministers in the coming weeks.

The proposals reportedly include tighter trade measures on goods originating from Israeli settlements, alongside the introduction of tariffs and stricter import regulations for products entering the EU from those areas.

Both France and Sweden argue that urgent action is needed in response to the rapid expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, and they are seeking to build wider European support for new policy options.

The initiative comes amid broader discussions within the EU over its relationship with Israel. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas proposed in September 2025 a package that could include suspending parts of existing trade agreements with Israel. However, such measures would require unanimous approval from EU member states to be implemented.

EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss possible sanctions and related measures at a meeting scheduled for 21 April, according to earlier reports.

Tensions over settlement expansion have also intensified following Israel’s approval on 8 February of steps to expand its control in the West Bank, including easing restrictions on land sales to settlers. These moves come despite UN Security Council Resolution 2334, adopted in 2016, which calls for an end to settlement activity, a resolution Israel has not complied with.